Why Entrepreneurship?

To break the cycle of poverty. To create long-term financial stability. To enrich communities.

To achieve the American dream.

The American dream is fading.

Over 40.6 million Americans live in poverty. In Washington state, nearly 1 in 10 residents live below the poverty line. For the first time, the majority of Americans don’t think their children will be better off than they are.

But we are all dreamers.

We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to prosper. Through hard work and grit, anyone from any background should be able to make a better life for themselves and their families. It is becoming harder and harder to get ahead. With rising costs and low wages, those without the resources, tools, and support they need are falling behind.

The American dream only keeps its promise when it includes opportunity for everyone. Small business ownership has always been a pathway out of poverty for those that have the courage to reach for it, but people today face persistent barriers and complex challenges.

Starting a business is doing the impossible. Especially with limited resources.

We know that if more people had the opportunity and resources to turn their business idea a reality, they would.

Ventures has helped over 7,500 people to do just that—start a business to improve the lives of themselves and their families.

With the right support, anyone can launch a small business.

There are many barriers and challenges that face low-income entrepreneurs. Whether it is navigating complex licensing requirements, calculating break-even points, understanding local and federal tax codes, or applying for a loan, being a business owner is not easy.